By Fluid Pressure Patents (Class 137/12)
  • Patent number: 9625918
    Abstract: A fluid-pressure regulator for regulating the pressure of a fluid. The regulator includes a variable-resistance fluid element and a variable-volume fluid element located downstream of the variable-resistance element. Pressure in the fluid at the outlet of the regulator is controlled by substantially simultaneously changing the resistance of the variable-resistance element and the volume of the variable-volume element. In one example, a decrease in pressure is effected at the outlet by simultaneously increasing the resistance of the variable-resistance element and increasing the volume of the variable-volume element. Some embodiments of the regulator are particularly useful to effect long-term and high-speed pressure changes in high-resistance fluidic channel networks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: Carnegie Mellon University
    Inventors: Yong-Tae Kim, Matthew Brandon Kuczenski, Philip LeDuc, William Messner
  • Patent number: 9557744
    Abstract: A mass flow controller comprises: a first flow meter constructed and arranged to measured flow rate of mass through the mass flow controller; a second flow meter constructed and arranged to measure flow rate of mass through the mass flow controller; a control valve constructed and arranged so as to control the flow rate of mass through the mass flow controller in response to a control signal generated as a function of the flow rate as measured by one of the flow meters; and a system controller constructed and arranged to generate the control signal, and to provide an indication when a difference between the flow rate of mass as measured by the first flow meter and the flow rate of mass as measured by the second flow meter exceeds a threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: MKS Instruments, Inc.
    Inventor: Junhua Ding
  • Patent number: 9423800
    Abstract: Methods for initiating and implementing fail operational modes in an electro-hydraulic system are disclosed. In one step, a plurality of valve assemblies is provided wherein each of the valve assemblies has a pressure sensor and a position sensor in communication with an electronic system controller. The valve assemblies are in fluid communication with a hydraulic actuator, for example a linear actuator or hydraulic motor. In one step, a fault condition with one of the sensors is detected. The method may also include the steps of determining the type and location of the sensor associated with detected fault condition. In another step, an actuator state is determined wherein the actuator is in a passive state or overrunning state. Another step is initiating and implementing one of a plurality of fail operational modes based on the determination of the sensor type and location, and the actuator state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2016
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Michael Berne Rannow
  • Patent number: 9411341
    Abstract: A vacuum pump controller and a method of making a devise using the same are presented. The vacuum pump controller comprises detectors for detecting whether a cassette is present in a semiconductor processing load lock; and controllers for sending control signals to a vacuum pump to control the speed voltage of the vacuum pump. The vacuum pump controller may further send control signals to control the supply of N2/H2 gas, cooling water and other vacuum pump accessories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2016
    Inventors: Chin Fong Lee, Ming Zhu, Chuin Boon Yeap
  • Patent number: 9298189
    Abstract: A pilot valve assembly for use with a main valve apparatus coupled to a water pipe, includes a differential pilot valve apparatus, and first and second pilot valve apparatuses. An inlet of the differential pilot valve is coupled to a junction and an outlet is coupled to the first pilot valve apparatus. The differential pilot valve is responsive to a pressure differential to open the differential pilot valve apparatus for water to flow to the first pilot valve apparatus and to close the differential pilot valve apparatus to inhibit water flow to the first pilot valve apparatus. The second pilot valve apparatus is coupled to the junction to facilitate water flow through the second pilot valve apparatus when the second differential valve member is open. Adjustment mechanisms facilitate adjustment of the pressures responsive to which the first pilot valve member and the second pilot valve member close.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Inventors: Kari Juhani Oksanen, Marc Norman Ferrer Payot
  • Patent number: 9298190
    Abstract: A pilot valve assembly for use with a main valve apparatus coupled to a water pipe, includes a differential pilot valve, and first and second pilot valves. An inlet of the differential pilot valve is coupled to a junction and an outlet is coupled to the first pilot valve. The differential pilot valve is responsive to a pressure differential to open and close the differential pilot valve to control water flow therethrough to the first pilot. The first pilot valve is responsive to a first pressure to close the first pilot valve to reduce water flow therethrough. The second pilot valve is coupled to the junction to facilitate water flow through the second pilot valve when the differential valve member is open. The second pilot valve is responsive to a second pressure to close the second pilot valve to reduce water flow therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Inventors: Kari Juhani Oksanen, Marc Norman Ferrer Payot
  • Patent number: 9273394
    Abstract: A plasma processing apparatus includes at least three gas supply lines connected to a process chamber in parallel to allow a gas to flow therethrough, and at least three flow-rate controllers provided on the gas supply lines to detect the flow rate of the gas flowing through each of the flow-rate controllers to control the flow rate to a set value and a diagnosis method. The apparatus has a function of splitting and supplying a gas controlled to a predetermined flow rate by the third flow-rate controller, to a first flow-rate controller for the smallest detectable range of the three flow-rate controllers and to a second flow-rate controller, in order to test the operation of the control of the flow rate of the first flow-rate controller, based on the value obtained from the flow rate of the gas flowing through the second flow-rate controller and the predetermined flow rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Assignee: HITACHI HIGH-TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Masahiro Nagatani, Yoshifumi Ogawa
  • Patent number: 9205187
    Abstract: A device including: a tubing clamp having a clamping mechanism holding closed a first fluid line while a second fluid flows along a second fluid line from a second container, the first fluid line delivers a flow of a first fluid; and a vacuum activated catch retainably coupled with the tubing clamp and coupled with the second fluid line, the vacuum activated catch including: a movable element coupled with the tubing clamp and configured for changing from a first shape to a second shape upon receipt of a deforming pressure, wherein when the movable element is in the first shape, the vacuum activated catch retains the tubing clamp in a closed position, and when the movable element is in the second shape, the vacuum activated catch releases the tubing clamp into an open position, thereby allowing the flow of the first fluid to commence within the first fluid line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2015
    Assignee: CareFusion 303, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Dwaine Butterfield
  • Publication number: 20150136236
    Abstract: Method of operating a valve (1) which connects openings (2, 3) of at least two chambers (4, 5) to one another and, for closing the openings (2, 3) of each of the chambers (4, 5), has at least one dedicated closure member (6, 7), wherein for opening one of the openings (2, 3), the chamber (4, 5) assigned to said opening (2, 3) has generated in it a positive pressure which is higher than a current pressure in the valve-housing interior (8), wherein, by virtue of this positive pressure, the closure member (6, 7) assigned to said opening is raised up from the valve seat (10, 11) assigned to said opening (2, 3) and then, through this opening (2, 3), pressure equalization is carried out between the valve-housing interior (8) and the chamber (4, 5) assigned to said opening (2, 3). (FIG.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2014
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Applicant: VAT Holding AG
    Inventors: Christoph Bachmann, Florian Ehrne
  • Publication number: 20150129043
    Abstract: A valve with a valve body in which is rotatably mounted a valve member, the valve member having therein a ball check for selectively preventing fluid flow through the valve. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims, 37 C.F.R. 1.72(b).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventors: Richard C. Hughes, Melvin O. Castillo, James C. Hertenberger
  • Publication number: 20150122340
    Abstract: A biased normally open check valve assembly for facilitating Multiair® engine start-up after extended periods of non-use. The check valve is biased in an open position and allows for the ventilation of air out of the system so that the engine can start. The check valve also comprises a metering groove in a valve seat. The metering groove is configured to allow a controlled flow of hydraulic fluid through the check valve when the check valve is in a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2013
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventor: Thomas C. Edelmayer
  • Publication number: 20150114337
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a system includes a lubricated component and a lubricant pump that selectively provides lubricant to the lubricated component. The system also includes a lubricant source in lubricant providing communication with the lubricant pump. Additionally, the system includes a lubricant flow regulation device in lubricant receiving communication with the lubricated component and lubricant providing communication with the lubricant source. The lubricant flow regulation device is configured to drain lubricant from the lubricated component to the lubricant source based on when the lubricant pump provides lubricant to the lubricated component, and to prevent drainage of lubricant from the lubricated component to the lubricant source based on when the lubricant pump stops providing lubricant to the lubricated component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Applicant: Cummins IP, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Marthaler
  • Publication number: 20150114477
    Abstract: A fuel supply system for an aircraft is provided for delivering in use fuel from a fuel tank to an aircraft powerplant. The in use fuel flows along a fuel flow passage from the fuel tank to the powerplant. A downstream pump is associated with the powerplant and configured to draw fluid along the fuel flow path so as to supply it to the powerplant in use. An upstream pump is disposed in or associated with the fuel tank and operable to pump fluid along the fuel flow passage. A pressure sensor is configured to monitor a pressure at an inlet to the downstream pump. A fuel system controller is responsive to the pressure sensor and configured to control the upstream pump so as to maintain the pressure at the inlet to the downstream pump at or above a predetermined threshold pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: John Henry Wood
  • Publication number: 20150107680
    Abstract: A modulating check valve and method of operating the modulating check valve adapted for mounting to an inlet of a compressor. The modulating check valve includes a flow section through which fluid flow. The flow section has an intake portal and an outlet portal connected to the inlet of the compressor. A flapper valve is disposed in the flow section to prevent backflow from the outlet portal to the intake portal. An actuator controls the flapper valve allowing the flapper valve to open, close and modulate the fluid flow from the intake portal to the outlet portal of the flow section in response to fluid pressure at an outlet of the compressor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2013
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventors: Walter R. Chapman, JR., James W. Swoger
  • Publication number: 20150107681
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for compressing gases and supplying compressed gaseous fuel to a consuming device, such as a gaseous fueled vehicle or the like. One embodiment includes a gas compressor for compressing the gaseous fuel to an array of tanks having predetermined initial set points which are increasing for tanks in the array. One embodiment provides a selecting valve having first and second families of ports wherein the valve can be operated to select a plurality of ports from the first family to be fluidly connected with a plurality of ports with the second family, and such fluid connections can be changed by operation of the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventors: Walter H. Killeen, Bryan Killeen, Carl Guichard
  • Publication number: 20150096625
    Abstract: A valve assembly for a tank of a vehicle and a method of creating a vacuum are disclosed. A valve body defines a cavity and an outlet in fluid communication with the cavity for venting the tank. The assembly includes a seat disposed in the cavity of the valve body. The seat separates the cavity into first and second cavity portions. The seat defines an aperture to provide fluid communication between the first and second cavity portions. The assembly includes a cover device disposed between the seat and the outlet. The cover device defines at least one hole therethrough. The cover device is movable between a rest position engaging the seat to minimize fluid communication between the aperture and the hole and an actuated position spaced from the seat to increase fluid communication between the aperture and the hole when a vacuum is created in the first cavity portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2014
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Applicant: EATON CORPORATION
    Inventor: Vaughn Kevin Mills
  • Publication number: 20150096984
    Abstract: An aircraft fuel tank system includes at least one fuel tank having a plurality of interconnected bays and a vent arranged so as to allow an inward venting of atmospheric air. The system is arranged so as to direct the inwardly vented air along a vent duct. The vent duct is arranged so as to convey the inwardly vented air to substantially each one of the interconnected bays.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2013
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Inventors: Dominic Ashton, John Wood, John Foster
  • Patent number: 8997686
    Abstract: A system for and method of delivering pulses of a desired mass of gas to a tool is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: MKS Instruments, Inc.
    Inventor: Junhua Ding
  • Publication number: 20150087098
    Abstract: A method for reducing an internal pressure of a vacuum chamber while preventing impurity contamination within the vacuum chamber as much as possible. The method includes: rough pumping reducing an internal pressure of a vacuum chamber (1) by using a roughing pump (2), the roughing pump (2) being a mechanical pump that is capable of reducing the internal pressure of the vacuum chamber (1) to be less than 15 Pa; main pumping reducing the internal pressure of the vacuum chamber (1) by using a main pump (3) after the rough pumping, the main pump (3) being a non-mechanical pump. Transition from the rough pumping to the main pumping is performed when the internal pressure of the vacuum chamber (1) is no less than 15 Pa.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2013
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yuko Kawanami, Ryuuta Yamada
  • Patent number: 8979021
    Abstract: An air bleed valve having a housing with hydraulic fluid therein and a first acoustic wave sensor mounted within the housing so as to be covered in the hydraulic fluid and a second acoustic wave sensor mounted within the housing so that it can detect when air is present in the housing sufficient to be vented outside upon the opening of an air vent valve and where both the first acoustic wave sensor and the second acoustic wave sensor and the air vent valve are electrically connected to a air bleed controller. In a preferred embodiment, the first and second acoustic wave sensors are of the type known as a shear horizontal surface acoustic sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Easton Corporation
    Inventors: Sanjeev N. Dhuri, Udaykumar P. Dere
  • Patent number: 8978692
    Abstract: A pilot valve (2) for controlling operation of a hydraulically-actuated pressure reducing valve, the pilot valve including a housing (4), and a first valve member (15) mounted in the housing for longitudinal movement along an axis relative to the housing and to a second valve member (22) in response to the outlet pressure of the pressure reducing valve. The first valve member is provided with an aperture (20) and the second valve member comprises a closure portion which varies the effective flow cross section of the aperture in accordance with relative longitudinal movement between the first and second valve members. An adjuster (26) controls the relative rotational position of the first and second valve members, the closure portion having a profile such that relative rotation between the first and second valve members causes the closure portion to vary the effective flow cross section of the aperture (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: i20 Water Limited
    Inventors: Roger Heron, Andrew Roland Burrows
  • Publication number: 20150068610
    Abstract: A method for determining a value of a current, which is required for changing a switching state of a pressure control valve of a fuel delivery system, in which the current flowing through the pressure control valve is varied from a starting value up to a target value, and a time curve of the current is analyzed, the value required for changing the switching state being reached when the curve of the current has a change in slope, this change being detected via a first derivation over time of the current.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Andreas Sommerer, Sebastien Chatelain, Raphael Combe, Markus Viereck
  • Patent number: 8973597
    Abstract: A water supply system that supplies water to a plumbing system from either a mains supply, or an auxiliary supply. In a default state, a shuttle valve is pressure balanced and couples water from the mains supply to the plumbing system via mains inlet port and outlet port, and in another state the shuttle valve is pressure unbalanced and moved so that auxiliary water is coupled to the plumbing system via an auxiliary inlet port and the outlet port of the shuttle valve. Water is drawn from an auxiliary tank and coupled to the plumbing system when two conditions exist, namely when water is demanded, as sensed by flow sensor, and when water is available from the auxiliary supply, as sensed by float system. Water pressure at the auxiliary inlet port causes the shuttle to move from the default state and couple water from the auxiliary inlet port to the outlet port and thus to the plumbing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Inventor: Ian Gray
  • Publication number: 20150040989
    Abstract: An automatic excess water flow saving system reduces the water loss by water outlets in houses and other water consuming installations. The system controls the water flow through an outlet by toggling the water flow rate. An actuator activates a timer which opens and closes a valve intermittently and continuously while a water outlet is open.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2013
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventor: Rene FRONTERA-MARIANI
  • Publication number: 20150040990
    Abstract: A fluid flow control device includes a housing having a fluid inlet (7) and at least one fluid outlet (8). A first fluid flow restrictor (1) serves as an inflow port to a chamber (B) in the housing, and a second fluid flow restrictor (2) serves as an outflow port from the chamber (B). The first fluid flow restrictor and the second fluid flow restrictor are configured to generate different fluid flow characteristics; and the chamber (B) includes an actuating device (5a-1) that is responsive to fluid pressure changes (?P2) in the chamber. The first fluid flow restrictor (1) and the second fluid flow restrictor (2) are configured to impose respective different fluid flow characteristics based on different fluid properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2013
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Applicant: InflowControl AS
    Inventors: Vidar Mathiesen, Bjørnar Werswick, Haavard Aakre
  • Publication number: 20150027552
    Abstract: A fluid supply system includes a pressure tank configured to contain a pressurized gas and a fluid, a delivery point configured to be connected to a point of use, a recirculation piping connecting the pressure tank to the delivery point, and a return pump connected to the recirculation piping. The recirculation piping defines a circulation path for the fluid from the pressure tank through the delivery point and back to the pressure tank. The return pump is downstream of the delivery point and upstream of the pressure tank in the circulation path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2013
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Applicant: Taiwna Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Ching-Jung HSU, Yung-Ti HUNG, Chun-Feng HSU, Nan-Peng CHENG
  • Publication number: 20150020889
    Abstract: An engine fuel system and methods are provided. The engine fuel system includes a supply arrangement for providing an outlet flow of fuel to a bypass metering arrangement. The bypass metering arrangement in turn provides a metered flow of fuel to a parallel metering system including a primary regulated circuit and one or more secondary metering circuits. The bypass metering arrangement is operable to maintain a substantially constant pressure differential across a fuel metering valve thereof, as well as provide the metered flow of fuel in response to downstream pressure demands of the parallel metering system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2013
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Applicant: WOODWARD, INC.
    Inventor: Carthel C. Baker
  • Publication number: 20150020888
    Abstract: A fuel pressure regulation system is provided. The fuel pressure regulation system includes a supply arrangement for supplying an outlet flow. A primary metering circuit is provided, an inlet of which receives a first portion of the outlet flow of the supply arrangement, the primary metering circuit comprising a fuel metering valve and a primary pressure regulator. The primary pressure regulator is connected to an outlet of the fuel metering valve. The system also includes at least one secondary metering circuit. The primary pressure regulator is operably connected to the at least one secondary metering circuit to sense a pressure of the at least one secondary metering circuit. The system also includes a bypass regulator connected in parallel with the primary metering circuit and the least one secondary metering circuit such that an inlet of the bypass regulator receives a second portion of the outlet flow of the supply arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2013
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Applicant: WOODWARD, INC.
    Inventors: Carthel C. Baker, Michael P. Garry
  • Patent number: 8936009
    Abstract: A pressure regulator is disclosed having a body, a valve seat dividing a cavity of the body into first and second portions, and an end stop movable against a bias to selectively engage the valve seat and isolate the first and second portions. The pressure regulator may also have a first inlet port in the first portion, a first outlet port in the second portion and in fluid communication with the first portion via the valve seat, and a second inlet port in the second portion. The fuel system may also have a valve element in the second portion and movable against a spring bias based on a pressure difference between an open position and a restricted position against the end stop. The fuel system may additionally have an actuator biased to urge the valve element toward the second position and selectively actuated to move away from the valve element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Caterpillar
    Inventors: Daniel R. Puckett, Joshua W. Steffen, Frank J. Lombardi, Steven T. Grant
  • Publication number: 20150007893
    Abstract: A battery system, in particular a lithium-ion battery system, comprising a discharge line (AL) with an opening for discharging substances which are produced in the battery system, in particular gases, to the surroundings of the battery system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2014
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Inventor: Ulrich Zimmermann
  • Publication number: 20150000753
    Abstract: A control system for optimizing the flow of fluid from a plurality of pipelines in communication with a resource field includes a sensor array detecting characteristics of the resource field, the plurality of pipelines, and the flow of fluid through the plurality of pipelines. A first manifold assembly and a second manifold assembly each selectively receives the flow of fluid from any of the plurality of pipelines. A controller is provided to be in communication with the sensor array, the first manifold assembly and the second manifold assembly. The controller selectively diverts the flow of the fluid from a first group of the plurality of pipelines to one of the first and the second manifold assemblies, and diverts a second group of the plurality of pipelines to another of the first and the second manifold assemblies, in dependence upon the characteristics being communicated to the controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2014
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Applicant: SITEPP Sistemas y Tecnologia para et Petroleo, S.A. de C.V.
    Inventor: Francisco Morales Ramirez
  • Publication number: 20150000752
    Abstract: A fluid pressure regulating system includes an auxiliary fluid circuit having a high pressure region and a low pressure region, a pump connected to the auxiliary fluid circuit and configured to discharge fluid into the high pressure region of the auxiliary fluid circuit, and a check valve connecting the high pressure region of the auxiliary fluid circuit to a main fluid interface line. The fluid pressure regulating system also includes a pressure regulating valve connecting the high pressure region of the auxiliary fluid circuit and the low pressure region of the auxiliary fluid circuit. The pressure regulating valve includes an aperture defining a fluid path from the high pressure region of the auxiliary fluid circuit to the low pressure region of the auxiliary fluid circuit. The aperture has a variable area as a function of fluid pressure within the main fluid interface line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventors: Floyd K. Matlack, Paul A. Carvalho
  • Publication number: 20140374238
    Abstract: A precision volumetric liquid dispensing instrument is disclosed that includes two pressure sensors and a fluid passageway with a defined volume portion in communication with the two sensors for receiving and distributing liquid in relatively small volumes. One of the pressure sensors is positioned to measure pressure at one portion of the defined volume portion of the fluid passageway and the other of the gas pressure sensors is positioned to measure gas pressure at a different portion of the defined volume portion of the passageway. At least one valve is in communication with the passageway for moving fluids into or out of the defined volume portion of the fluid passageway, and a processor carries out a step selected from the group consisting of (i) calculating the volume of the liquid based upon the measured pressure and (ii) metering a liquid into the defined volume portion of the fluid passageway until the measured pressure indicates that a desired volume of fluid is in the fluid passageway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventors: David L. Herman, Joseph J. Lambert
  • Patent number: 8905055
    Abstract: A full flow pressure relief valve includes a housing having an inlet opening on its bottom and an outlet opening on one of its side. A piston is positioned inside the housing adapted to move from a set position where the piston seals the inlet opening to a sprung position where the piston is removed from the inlet opening. A lock is biased by a spring in a perpendicular direction toward the side of the piston. The lock is adapted to hold the piston in the set position until a relief pressure is supplied in the inlet opening, where the lock is adapted to release the piston to the sprung position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Water Missions International
    Inventors: George C. Greene, III, Bruce M. Okkema
  • Publication number: 20140345700
    Abstract: A pressure monitoring system for a fuel tank includes a supply line fluidly coupling a fluid source with at least one fuel tank for supplying an inert gas to the at least one fuel tank. Also included is a pressure relief valve in communication with the supply line configured to detect a pressure differential between a supply line pressure and an ambient pressure. Further included is a pressure sensor configured to detect the supply line pressure. Yet further included is a controller in operable communication with the pressure sensor and the fluid source, wherein the controller is configured to modify a flow rate of the inert gas in the supply line upon detection of the supply line pressure exceeding a predetermined pressure limit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Inventors: Eric S. Surawski, Scott F. Kaslusky, Jeffrey D. Ernst
  • Patent number: 8887748
    Abstract: A pressure reducer having a high-pressure inlet, a low-pressure outlet and a valve having a valve seat and a valve plunger, which interacts therewith and can be displaced in a direction of displacement. When displaced away from the valve seat, the valve plunger opens a first path between the high-pressure inlet and the low-pressure outlet. The pressure reducer furthermore includes a second path, which connects the high-pressure inlet and the low-pressure outlet, a first control valve, which is arranged in the course of the second path, and a first effective area of the valve plunger, which is arranged in the course of the second path and is aligned in such a way that a first control pressure acting thereon results in a first force on the valve plunger in the direction of displacement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: MAGNA STEYR Fahrzeugtechnik AG & Co KG
    Inventor: Peter Pucher
  • Publication number: 20140326324
    Abstract: An apparatus for sealing an open end of a pipe includes a sealing means for forming a circumferential seal between the apparatus and the inner surface of the pipe and first and second “gripping” means for frictionally engaging the inner and outer surfaces of the pipe, respectively, to prevent relative axial movement between the apparatus and the pipe. The invention also provides a method of sealing an open end of a pipe. The apparatus and method are also adapted to pressurize the interior of the pipe for conducting an integrity test of the pipe or welds on the pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Inventors: Guy Berube, Glenn Carson
  • Patent number: 8875498
    Abstract: A pump system that includes a pump, an injector and a regulator with a calculation unit. The regulator controls the pump to pump a liquid through a hose to the injector which opens and closes in response to an injector control signal, the time for an opening and closing cycle being called injector cycle and designated Ts, and the injector's open period being designated ?. The injector has a pressure sensor to measure the pressure of the liquid in the injector and to deliver to the calculation unit a pressure sensor signal representing the pressure amplitude in the injector. The calculation unit calculates the hose's rigidity B as a function of measured pressured amplitudes A in the injector, the injector cycle Ts and the injector's open period ?, and the regulator determines the basis of B the control signal to the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Scania CV AB
    Inventors: Ottmar Raeymaeckers, Anders Larsson, Eva Geijer, Leif Lundin
  • Publication number: 20140318634
    Abstract: The present application provides a fuel conditioning system for delivering a flow of fuel to a nozzle in a gas turbine engine. The fuel conditioning system may include a fuel compressor to increase the pressure of the flow of fuel, a pressure reduction valve to decrease the pressure of the flow of fuel, and a heater downstream of the pressure reduction valve. The pressure reduction valve may include a rotary control valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2013
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Hua Zhang, Douglas Scott Byrd, Iris Ziqin Hu, Dean Matthew Erickson
  • Publication number: 20140311580
    Abstract: An air intake guide for a jet propulsion power plant for a supersonic aircraft comprises an intake aperture, an intake centre body and an intake adjustment device. The intake aperture has an intake lip, an intake centre body is positioned within the aperture, and an intake adjustment device is positioned on a radially inwardly facing surface of the air intake guide downstream of the intake lip. The intake adjustment device comprises a flexible panel and an actuator with the actuator being adapted to deflect the flexible panel in a radially inwardly direction so as to reduce a cross-sectional area of the intake aperture and thereby to position a shock wave at the intake lip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCE PLC
    Inventor: Nicholas HOWARTH
  • Publication number: 20140305508
    Abstract: A method of deactivating an underwater hydraulic device provides a hydraulic device that is capable of being operated under water, the device having a hydraulic cylinder with a pushrod and a piston. The device is lowered below a water surface with a hose reel that is located at the water surface area such as on a marine vessel. The hose reel includes first and second hydraulic hoses that connect to the cylinder on opposing sides of the piston. Fluid flow in the first and second hydraulic hoses is continuously monitored. The ratio of the volume of fluid flowing into the cylinder from one side of the piston to the volume of fluid flowing into the cylinder from the other side of the piston is continuously calculated with a computer or controller. The hydraulic device is deactivated if the ratio varies from a preset value. One embodiment includes a plurality of flow meters for measuring fluid flow to and from one or more hydraulically powered apparatuses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: GULFSTREAM SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Joey NAQUIN
  • Patent number: 8857456
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus utilize a rate of drop in pressure upstream of a gas flow controller (GFC) to accurately measure a rate of flow through the GFC. Measurement of the gas flow through the many gas flow controllers in production use today is enabled, without requiring any special or sophisticated pressure regulators or other special components. Various provisions ensure that none of the changes in pressure that occur during or after the measurement perturb the constant flow of gas through the GFC under test. A pressure regulator is coupled to a gas source. The GFC is positioned downstream of the pressure regulator. A pressure transducer is measuring pressure in a volume between the pressure regulator and the GFC. Techniques are provided for increasing the pressure in the volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Pivotal Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph R. Monkowski, Jialing Chen, Tao Ding, James MacAllen Chalmers
  • Patent number: 8844551
    Abstract: A method for detecting a leak in a closed-volume liquid system comprises circulating a fluid through a closed-loop with a pump having a reservoir and that is driven by an electric motor. The method also comprises sensing a pressure in the closed-loop, sensing current draw by the motor and sensing fluid level in the reservoir. The method further comprises determining a presence of a leak of fluid from the closed-loop based upon two of the sensed signals using a first leak detection logic, and determining the presence of a leak of fluid from the closed-loop based upon at least one of the sensed signals using a second leak detection logic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: Kurt J. Doughty, Terrance R. Snider, Daniel Uttberg, Eric A. Rohrbach
  • Publication number: 20140261718
    Abstract: A main stage in-line pressure control cartridge. The cartridge selectively controls flow in-line in the same direction as opposed to directing flow at a 90 degree angle like other cartridges. A tubular poppet can be mounted into a body and has a sliding control sleeve that can expose radial holes in the poppet to an open position and to seal the radial holes in a closed position. The cartridge can be configured in numerous ways in order to serve many functions, such as a pressure relief valve, a counterbalance valve, and a flow control valve. The cartridge can also be configured to allow or prevent reverse flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: David Albrecht, David Albrecht, JR.
  • Publication number: 20140261715
    Abstract: A method is provided involving reducing a pressure drop across a hydroprocessing reactor having a reactor feed and producing a hydroprocessing product, where the reactor feed includes a bio-oil feed and a hydrocarbon diluent; and the step of reducing the pressure drop comprises stopping or substantially reducing the bio-oil feed supplied to the reactor and supplying the hydrocarbon diluent to the reactor with a mass flux of at least about 1,000 lb/hr/ft2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: SYNTROLEUM CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ramin Abhari, Peter Havlik, H. Lynn Tomlinson, Gary Roth, Tsungani Record
  • Publication number: 20140261717
    Abstract: A valve system is provided that includes an electromechanical solenoid, a gas valve including a magnetic flapper, a power source in electrical communication with the electromechanical solenoid, and a controller. The controller is configured to control the power source to supply an intermediate voltage that causes the electromechanical solenoid to move to a neutral position between a default position and a fully-actuated position. In so doing, the magnetic flapper is maintained in a neutral position between two gas ports and a flow of gas between the ports can be used to clean foreign particles from the magnetic flapper. The controller can also provide a varying voltage to the electromechanical solenoid while in the neutral position to cause vibration of the magnetic flapper and further assist in removing foreign particles. A closed loop system including a feedback circuit can be used for adjusting the voltage applied to the solenoid based on pressure sensed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: FRESENIUS MEDICAL CARE HOLDINGS, INC.
    Inventors: Bert D. EGLEY, Philip Scott JAMES
  • Publication number: 20140261704
    Abstract: A regulator for regulating the pressure and flow of gas traveling between a gas inlet and a gas outlet. A first pressure regulator in fluid communication with the gas inlet and configured to prevent gas flowing downstream of the first pressure regulator from exceeding a first pressure. A first line between the first pressure regulator and the gas outlet. A second pressure reducing device in fluid communication with the first line downstream of the first pressure regulator and configured to prevent gas flowing in the first line at a point downstream of the second pressure regulator from exceeding a second pressure. A control valve actuatable to an open position when gas is transmitted to a first pilot valve at or below the second pressure, the first pilot valve in fluid communication with the first line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: NORDSON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jon E. Hoogenakker, Huadong Lou, Bradley D. Robb
  • Publication number: 20140271245
    Abstract: Disclosed is a one-way valve wherein an affixed flexible film device, a downstream edge control means, a channel surface and the motive force of a controlled directional pressurized fluid flow automatically permit forward fluid flow yet check reverse fluid backflow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: William Anthony Harper
  • Publication number: 20140262159
    Abstract: In at least one illustrative embodiment, a fluid flow control apparatus may comprise a fluid network including a plurality of parallel branches, each parallel branch of the plurality of parallel branches being fluidly coupled between an inlet and an outlet of the fluid network. Each parallel branch of the plurality of parallel branches may comprise a pressure-independent flow control device configured to limit fluid flow through the respective parallel branch to a reference flow amount irrespective of a pressure at the inlet of the fluid network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: David Pierce Whitten Solberg, Earl Orel Sanders
  • Publication number: 20140261716
    Abstract: Fluid pump pressure regulation systems and methods have a valve body with a bore and a valve spool. The valve spool connects a first and second port to a third port in different valve spool positions. The first port is in fluid communication with an output of a fluid pump to receive a first fluid pressure from the fluid pump. The second port is in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir. The third port is in fluid communication with a fluid pump input to provide a second fluid pressure to the fluid pump to control the first fluid pressure from the fluid pump. A linear actuator is adjacent the valve body, with a first spring and a second spring biasing the valve spool in a first or second direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: HUSCO AUTOMOTIVE HOLDINGS LLC
    Inventor: Curt Van Weelden